Period Drama Reviews
As part of Old Fashioned Charm's Period Drama Challenge, every period drama I have watched between January 7th and July 7th 2013 has been reviewed and left here for you to see! :)
RATING KEY:
1 - so bad I couldn't even finish it
2 - finished it, but forced myself to
3 - liked it, but wouldn't watch it again soon
4 - liked it alot, would watch it again soon
5 - loved it! would watch it again NOW!
1 - so bad I couldn't even finish it
2 - finished it, but forced myself to
3 - liked it, but wouldn't watch it again soon
4 - liked it alot, would watch it again soon
5 - loved it! would watch it again NOW!
Ever After 30 June 2013Once upon a time...
"a dazzling rendering of the Cinderella story" (The Washington Post) brought new life to an age-old legend and made us believe in the strongest magic of all: the power of the human heart. Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Houstan star in this enchanting adventure about having the courage to make your dreams come true. A "modern" young woman of the 16th century, Danielle (Barrymore) is as independent and wise as she is beautiful and kind. Against remarkable odds, she stands up to her scheming stepmother (Houstan) and works miracles on the lives of everyone around her, including the crown prince of France (Dougray Scott)! Now you can relive this captivating, contemporary retelling of the classic fairytale. No matter what you're looking for, "action, romance, adventure... Ever After delivers it all!" (ABC-TV) Read more... Hornblower: Duty 25 June 2013Hornblower is filled with trepidation on his wedding day, but he has given his word - how could he dishonour his bride Maria and live with
himself? Admiral Pellew gives Hornblower little time to ponder his new state of matrimony as he sends him off immediately to search for the missing sloop Grasshopper, captained by their old friend, Bracegirdle. Hornblower does indeed locate the wreck of the Grasshopper and its sole survivor, a crushed and defeated Captain Bracegirdle. Hornblower is forced to sail into dangerous waters, as the fog descends and the snow falls, to attack the French vessels poised once more for an invasion. Waiting patiently in England, Maria has her own momentous news for Hornblower... Read more... |
I'VE COMPLETED
20 PERIOD FILMS! |
Hornblower: Loyalty 17 June 2013
1803 Portsmouth. Hornblower is reduced to the rank of Lieutenant as a result of the peace treaty with France. He is forced to earn his living at the card tables and lodges with Mrs. Mason. A chance encounter with Lieutenant Bush reignites their friendship and indeed, it is Bush who first notices Hornblower has an admirer: Mrs. Mason's daughter, Maria.
Admiral Pellew summons Hornblower and confirms his promotion to commander. He is to captain the sloop Hotspur on a reconnaissance mission off the coast of France. Hornblower discovers preparations for an invasion force of 50,000 man and Pellew decides to mount a pre-emptive strike on the French fleet, now that war has once more been declared.
Back in England, Hornblower surprises himself by asking Maria to be his wife.
Read more...
Admiral Pellew summons Hornblower and confirms his promotion to commander. He is to captain the sloop Hotspur on a reconnaissance mission off the coast of France. Hornblower discovers preparations for an invasion force of 50,000 man and Pellew decides to mount a pre-emptive strike on the French fleet, now that war has once more been declared.
Back in England, Hornblower surprises himself by asking Maria to be his wife.
Read more...
Pearl Harbor 9 June 2013
An epic blockbuster with astounding visual effects, Pearl Harbor is
another unforgettable motion picture from producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Michael Bay, the hit-making team that brought you Armegeddon. Featuring Ben Afflick, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale in a tremendous all-star cast, the innocence of a nation is instantly shattered by a sudden and devastating act of warfare. As the lives and loves of a generation are tragically swept into the greatest conflict modern man has ever known - World War II - the events at Pearl Harbor become a supreme test for the strength of the human spirit. Also starring Cuba Gooding Jr., Alec Baldwin, John Voight, and Tom Sizemore, this breathtaking story of love, loss, and heroism is a must-see cinematic event.
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another unforgettable motion picture from producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Michael Bay, the hit-making team that brought you Armegeddon. Featuring Ben Afflick, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale in a tremendous all-star cast, the innocence of a nation is instantly shattered by a sudden and devastating act of warfare. As the lives and loves of a generation are tragically swept into the greatest conflict modern man has ever known - World War II - the events at Pearl Harbor become a supreme test for the strength of the human spirit. Also starring Cuba Gooding Jr., Alec Baldwin, John Voight, and Tom Sizemore, this breathtaking story of love, loss, and heroism is a must-see cinematic event.
Read more...
Hornblower: Retribution 3 June 2013
Savana Bay is an island ruled by Spanish privateers. The Renown is sent to route out the Spanish and regain the control of the island. After an unsuccessful attempt at a front assault. Hornblower hatches a plan to attack from the rear. Acting Captain Buckland after much deliberation agrees to attack, which is carried out successfully. Upon return to England, Buckland claims all credit for the operation. Will Hornblower ever be recognized for his efforts?
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Hornblower: Mutiny 19 May 2013
On board the 74 gun frigate ‘Renown’, destination unknown and with a deeply paranoid and deluded Captain, discipline quickly starts to deteriorate and Hornblower realises that action of some kind must be taken, whatever the consequences…
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Hallmark 1999 Alice in Wonderland 11 May 2013
Not Rated; Rating: 2.5
A acclaimed British production which originally aired on NBC, Lewis Carroll's classic story comes to life once again in this updated version- with an all-star cast including Martin Short, Whoopi Goldberg, Miranda Richardson, and Gene Wilder.
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Hornblower: The Frogs and the Lobsters 2 April 2013
M for violence and offensive language; Rating: 4.5
Hornblower’s ship, the Indefatiagable, together with three other ships carrying French émigré troops (the Frogs) and British Infantrymen (Lobsters), is sent to aid an attempted coup against the Republican Government by French counter-revolutionaries.
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Sense and Sensibility (2008) 27 March 2013
G - with a warning!; Rating: 5
Left penniless after their father’s death, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood face an uncertain future. They need to marry well if they are to retain their comfortable existence, but as Marianne’s impulsive behaviour leaves her open to gossip and innuendo, so does Elinor’s sensitivity to social conventions lead her to conceal her own romantic ambitions.
With a number of possible suitors – the intelligent and charming Mr. Edward Ferrars, the handsome Mr. John Willoughby, and the more thoughtful and compassionate Colonel Brandon – they seem to have their share of options. But are they all they appear and can the sisters find happiness in a society where status and money govern the rules of love?
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With a number of possible suitors – the intelligent and charming Mr. Edward Ferrars, the handsome Mr. John Willoughby, and the more thoughtful and compassionate Colonel Brandon – they seem to have their share of options. But are they all they appear and can the sisters find happiness in a society where status and money govern the rules of love?
Read more...
Anne Frank: The Whole Story 20 March 2013
TV-14; Rating: 3.5-4
Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley, Golden Globe winner Brenda Blethyn and Hannah Taylor Gordon star in the stirring tale of one of the most influential young women of the 20th century. Based on
Melissa Muller’s critically acclaimed book, Anne Frank goes beyond the story you already know and paints the true portrait of Anne both before and after she went into hiding.
Get to know the high-spirited and popular girl before the war, and experience the challenges of the brave people who risked their lives trying to keep her safe. Anne Frank also explores the enduring mystery of who betrayed the Frank family and reveal what happened next.
Read more...
Melissa Muller’s critically acclaimed book, Anne Frank goes beyond the story you already know and paints the true portrait of Anne both before and after she went into hiding.
Get to know the high-spirited and popular girl before the war, and experience the challenges of the brave people who risked their lives trying to keep her safe. Anne Frank also explores the enduring mystery of who betrayed the Frank family and reveal what happened next.
Read more...
Hornblower: The Duchess and the Devil 17 March 2013
PG for low level violence; Rating: 4.5
Acting Lieutenant Hornblower, assisted by only five men, captures the French sloop Le Reve off the Spanish coast – a major feat that does much to enhance his reputation.
Hornblower is commissioned Lieutenant due to his ‘exemplary gallantry’.
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Hornblower is commissioned Lieutenant due to his ‘exemplary gallantry’.
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The Final Inquiry 13 March 2013
PG for violence; Rating: 3
A thrilling tale of one man’s quest to uncover the truth, the Final Inquiry is an epic adventure that explores the mystery of all mysteries.
Rome’s greatest warrior, Tauro, on a special assignment from his emperor, travels in secret to Jerusalem to disprove the rumoured resurrection of a Jewish rabbi. Facing treachery and deceit from all sides, Tauro discovers faith, love, a revelatory truth that could ultimately shatter the empire!
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Rome’s greatest warrior, Tauro, on a special assignment from his emperor, travels in secret to Jerusalem to disprove the rumoured resurrection of a Jewish rabbi. Facing treachery and deceit from all sides, Tauro discovers faith, love, a revelatory truth that could ultimately shatter the empire!
Read More...
Emma 17 February 2013
NR; Rating: 5
Emma Woodhouse seems to be perfectly content, a loving father whom she cares for, friends, and a home. But Emma has a terrible habit - matchmaking. She cannot resist finding suitors for her friends, most of all Harriet Smith. Emma is desperate for Harriet to find happiness, but every suitor she finds for her friend ends up attracted to Emma herself. But is Emma so focused on Harriet's happiness that she is not considering her own happiness in love?
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The Mask of Zorro 10 February 2013
M for moderate violence; Rating: 5
With scenic 18th century Mexico as a backdrop, Zorro, a.k.a. Don Diego de la Vega is intent on revenge after rival enemy Don Raphael Montero murdered his wife and took his daughter, Elena. After being imprisoned for 20 years, the fabled hero removes his mask and takes on a tarnished young apprentice, Alejandro Murieta, to infiltrate Montero's plan to take control of California from Santa Anna. A
boisterous outlaw with his own desire for revenge, Murieta works with Diego to avenge his brother's death by the sword of Montero's right-hand man, Captain Harrison Love. After Diego's extensive training in swordfighting, discipline and manners, a new Zorro appears wreaking vengeance and stealing the heart of a now-grown Elena.
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boisterous outlaw with his own desire for revenge, Murieta works with Diego to avenge his brother's death by the sword of Montero's right-hand man, Captain Harrison Love. After Diego's extensive training in swordfighting, discipline and manners, a new Zorro appears wreaking vengeance and stealing the heart of a now-grown Elena.
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Persuasion 6 February 2013
G; Rating: 4
Anne falls deeply in love with handsome young naval officer Frederick Wentworth at the age of nineteen. But with neither fortune nor rank to recommend him, Anne’s family were against the match and persuaded her to break off the engagement. Eight years later, Anne has lived to regret her decision. She never stopped loving Frederick and when he returns from sea having made his fortune and reputation, she can only watch as every eligible young woman in the district falls at his feet.
Can Frederick forgive Anne for listening to her family instead of her heart?
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Can Frederick forgive Anne for listening to her family instead of her heart?
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Secondhand Lions 3 February 2013
PG for low level violence; Rating: 3.5
It’s the summer of 1960 and introverted 14-year-old Walter is unceremoniously dumped by his single mother Mae at the Texan farm of eccentric great uncles, Hub and Garth. Walter has never met them but legend has it, they were bank robbers, mafia hitmen, even Nazi war criminals. Whatever their past, one rumour is the most compelling to Mae: Hub and Garth have lots of money stashed away. So find the dough she commands Walter. But over one summer Walter discovers a whole lot more – his own sense of adventure, his own kind of happiness and life suddenly looks promising after all.
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The Princess Bride 3 February 2013
PG for low level violence; Rating: 3-4
A young boy, bedridden with the flu, is less than thrilled when his grandfather arrives to read him The Princess Bride – a fairytale adventure passed on by grandfathers and fathers to their sons and
grandsons, generation after generation.
As this tale of true love unfolds, the boy is drawn into the wonders of the fairytale kingdom of Florin, the adventures of Buttercup (the most beautiful woman in the world) and Westley (the man she loves). With an evil prince, three almost-evil henchmen, some killer rats, long lost loves returning from the dead, and a bit of torture, you couldn’t possibly call THIS a kissing book!
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grandsons, generation after generation.
As this tale of true love unfolds, the boy is drawn into the wonders of the fairytale kingdom of Florin, the adventures of Buttercup (the most beautiful woman in the world) and Westley (the man she loves). With an evil prince, three almost-evil henchmen, some killer rats, long lost loves returning from the dead, and a bit of torture, you couldn’t possibly call THIS a kissing book!
Read More...
North and South 20 January 2013
M for low level violence; Rating: 5
North & South is a
British television drama serial, produced by the BBC and originally broadcast in four episodes on BBC One in November and December 2004. It follows the story of Margaret Hale, a young woman from southern England who has to move to the North after her father decides to leave the clergy. The family struggles to adjust itself to the industrial town's customs, especially after meeting the Thorntons, a proud family of cotton mill owners who seem to despise their social inferiors. The story explores the issues of class and gender, as Margaret's sympathy for the town mill workers conflicts with her growing attraction to John Thornton.
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Hornblower: The Examination For Lieutenant 15 January 2013
M for meduim level violence; Rating: 4
The Indefatigable puts into Gibraltar where three survivors from a wrecked brig are rescued, one of whom is the legendary Captain Dawson who Hornblower comes to admire.
Supplies are much reduced so Hornblower leads a mission to Algiers to replenish them. The crew finds itself quarantined when exposed to plague but Hornblower utilizes his time to study for his pending Lieutenant's Examination.
Back in Gibraltar, Hornblower sits his exam but rails to impress his Commanding Officers until an alarm is raised when a Spanish attack looms...
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Supplies are much reduced so Hornblower leads a mission to Algiers to replenish them. The crew finds itself quarantined when exposed to plague but Hornblower utilizes his time to study for his pending Lieutenant's Examination.
Back in Gibraltar, Hornblower sits his exam but rails to impress his Commanding Officers until an alarm is raised when a Spanish attack looms...
Read more...
Hornblower: The Even Chance 14 January 2013
M for medium level violence; Rating: 5
Spithead, Portsmouth, England, 1794…
A storm is raging in the English Channel and a small shoreboat is being lashed by squally rain.
Huddled at the stern is a pale-faced seventeen year old midshipman about to begin his career in the Royal Navy. Soaked to the skin, Horatio Hornblower steps aboard his first ship, and becomes violently seasick.
But despite this unpromising start, he is destined to become one of the most gallant and formidable figures in naval history. Plunged into battle, action and adventure, Hornblower proves himself courageous, resourceful and decisive against the perils of the high seas.
Read more...
A storm is raging in the English Channel and a small shoreboat is being lashed by squally rain.
Huddled at the stern is a pale-faced seventeen year old midshipman about to begin his career in the Royal Navy. Soaked to the skin, Horatio Hornblower steps aboard his first ship, and becomes violently seasick.
But despite this unpromising start, he is destined to become one of the most gallant and formidable figures in naval history. Plunged into battle, action and adventure, Hornblower proves himself courageous, resourceful and decisive against the perils of the high seas.
Read more...